Hemisphere Media Group, Inc. has acquired exclusive rights from The Miss Universe Organization for the Miss Universe Puerto Rico franchise. The prestigious event will be managed and executed by WAPA Television, which has had broadcast rights to the pageant since 2015.

“We’re honored to acquire Miss Universe Puerto Rico and will approach it with the respect and importance commensurate with this esteemed international franchise,” said Alan J. Sokol, President and CEO of Hemisphere. “Miss Universe is a cherished and beloved event in Puerto Rico, which holds five Miss Universe crowns, and we are committed to taking Miss Universe Puerto Rico to the next level as an event that continues to celebrate and empower women on the Island. By fully integrating the pageant and the television rights, we will make Miss Universe Puerto Rico a year-round television, digital, and live event.”

WAPA is assembling a team of experts to oversee the local event, and has named former Miss Universe Denise Quiñones as Pageant Director.
“Denise Quiñones is an admired role model in and outside of Puerto Rico, and her grace, intelligence, and experience make her the perfect candidate to head up the local pageant,” said Javier Maynulet, WAPA Television’s incoming president. “We look forward to working with her to bring home a sixth Miss Universe crown to Puerto Rico.”

The pageant will take place in September in Puerto Rico. More details will be announced in the coming months.